As a runner with less-than-perfect vision, I know the struggle is real. Figuring out how to manage glasses while logging miles can be a real pain. Sweat, slippage, and limited peripheral vision are just a few of the challenges. But don't worry, I've been there, tried that, and I'm here to share what I've learned. This guide is all about helping fellow runners with glasses find the best solutions for a comfortable and clear run.
When I first started running regularly, wearing my everyday glasses felt like a constant battle. They would bounce around, slide down my nose with the slightest bit of sweat, and generally distract me from enjoying the run. It was incredibly frustrating. My prescription isn't fully correctable with soft lenses, so contacts weren't immediately an option. I even considered just running without them, but my vision is bad enough that it wasn't safe or enjoyable. Everything looked blurry and indistinct, making it hard to navigate uneven surfaces or anticipate obstacles.
I decided to try contacts specifically for running. It seemed like the obvious solution, and for a while, it worked pretty well. The freedom from bouncing glasses was a huge relief. However, I quickly discovered another problem: sweat. As I ramped up my mileage, sweat would drip down my forehead and into my eyes, causing the contacts to sting and blur my vision. Wiping my eyes only seemed to make it worse, smearing the sweat and irritating my eyes even more. Managing the sweat became just as annoying as dealing with glasses.
Then I stumbled upon prescription sunglasses. I had never considered them before, but I decided to give them a shot. This turned out to be a fantastic solution for me. The wraparound style of most sports sunglasses helps them stay in place much better than regular glasses. Plus, the tinted lenses provide sun protection and reduce glare, making my runs much more comfortable on bright days. I found that prescription sunglasses stayed on my face much easier than my regular glasses.
I've also seen some people try wearing sunglasses over their regular glasses, but I found that cleaning four lenses covered in sweat is more annoying than beneficial. It's a valid option for some, but it wasn't for me.
Of course, there's always LASIK. I know someone who had LASIK surgery years ago and still has excellent vision. They were severely nearsighted before the procedure and are thrilled with the results. While it's not something I've personally done (yet!), it's definitely worth considering if you're a candidate and looking for a permanent solution. However, it's a significant investment and comes with potential risks, so it's important to do your research and consult with a qualified surgeon.
After trying various options, I’ve settled on a pair of prescription sunglasses that work perfectly for me. I recently purchased a pair of Cinily Glasses Shop: SUMONDY -0.5 to -6.0 Diopter Prescription Glasses Sunglasses. I opted for the -3.5(-350) / gray version. The alloy pilot frame is lightweight and comfortable, and the lenses provide excellent clarity and sun protection.
I was initially hesitant to buy glasses online, but I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and accuracy of the prescription. They fit well, stay in place during my runs, and look stylish too. The gray tint is perfect for reducing glare without being too dark. I highly recommend giving them a try if you're looking for a comfortable and affordable solution for running with myopia.
These SUMONDY glasses from Cinily Net have really improved my running experience. I don't have to worry about my glasses slipping down my nose, and the sun protection is great. It's a game-changer!
Here are some additional tips I've learned along the way to help you run comfortably with glasses or contacts: